The Asia Cup 2025 began in Abu Dhabi on September 9, with Afghanistan making a powerful statement by thrashing Hong Kong comprehensively by 94 runs in the opening match of the tournament. Rashid Khan's team dominated throughout, issuing a warning of sorts for what promises to be an exhilarating tournament. The attention now turns to Dubai, where India will kick off their campaign against hosts United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a match anticipated to attract huge crowds and viewership. With plenty of anticipation already brewing, the Men in Blue will be keen to start well under new charge Suryakumar Yadav. The 2025 Asia Cup has special relevance for India. It is going to be their inaugural major tournament with Suryakumar as a full-time captain, and the free-scoring batter has already won over selectors and his teammates. With his fearlessness in stroke play and aggressive nature, Suryakumar is likely to give a new dimension to India's campaign. The team has a strong batting line-up with the likes of Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and Tilak Varma. Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh form a balanced bowling unit. On paper, India look one of the most formidable teams in the tournament, and hopes are mounting high among the fans as well as experts. But former Pakistan skipper Shoaib Malik has sounded a warning, highlighting what he feels can be India's weak link. Malik emphasized that while India's batting prowess cannot be denied, their dependence on big hitters may not be effective on the slow and turning UAE wickets. Also Read | IND vs UAE Asia Cup 2025: 16 Indians Players, 1 Pakistani Captain in Rare Clash Here is what Malik said: “The pitches of UAE are such where batsmen are not able to score freely. Shreyas Iyer was the kind of batter India needed in these conditions—he proved himself during the Champions Trophy here. If you look at the current Indian team, most batters will only play one way. All are hitters. On tracks in South Africa and Australia, that approach works, but in the UAE, this can be their weak link,” “There is no doubt India are the strongest contenders for the title. But the day spin becomes a little challenging, their batters can face difficulties.” Fans Pin High Hopes on Men in Blue In spite of Malik's prediction, the Indian camp is optimistic. Fans believe the team has enough depth and versatility to handle such conditions. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s experience missing this time, the new generation now has a golden opportunity to step up and prove their worth on the big stage.